Domestic Salmon Gains Popularity in Japan as Production Rises

Japanese-farmed salmon is gaining popularity across the country as domestic production increases and prices fall below those of imported fish.

This shift marks a potential disruption in a market heavily reliant on foreign seafood. Because salmon has been the top-ranked sushi topping for 15 consecutive years ^[2], any change in the supply chain affects a massive segment of the national diet.

Currently, imported salmon accounts for about 80% of the Japanese market ^[1]. However, advances in aquaculture technology have lowered production costs for domestic growers. This technological progress allows Japanese producers to offer fresh salmon at prices that are often lower than those of imports.

External pressures have accelerated this transition. Geopolitical factors, such as the situation in Iran, have contributed to higher import prices, pushing consumers toward locally sourced alternatives. In response, aquaculture companies and producers from various industries are entering the market to meet the rising demand.

Regional branding is also playing a key role in the growth of the industry. Producers are promoting "local salmon" varieties to differentiate their products. One such effort is visible in Shizuoka Prefecture, which has established its first salmon farm to bolster regional production ^[1].

Production has increased year-by-year between 2022 and 2024 ^[1]. This growth is supported by a combination of new facility openings and the entry of diversified corporate interests into the aquaculture sector. As these regional sites expand, the availability of domestic salmon in supermarkets and sushi restaurants continues to rise.